Emily Williams to Attend Prestigious Human Rights Course in Switzerland

Emily Williams, a class of 2019 graduate, has been accepted into the Lucerne Academy for Human Rights Implementation program at the University of Lucerne in Switzerland.

 

The three-week program is normally reserved for law students and lawyers. Williams credits her acceptance in part to the education and opportunities she received while at St Thomas.

 

“The valuable experiential learning that I was able to engage in while at STU helped my application stand out and I believe played a key role in why I was accepted,” Williams said.

 

The program focuses on the domestic implementation of human rights law. During her program in Switzerland, Williams will continue her experiential learning with day trips to Geneva to see the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, as well as the Human Rights Council and the European Court of Human Rights in France.

 

Williams graduated with a double major in Human Rights and Criminology, and a minor in Spanish. During her time at STU, she joined the Moot Court team, which led to her first trip to Switzerland to participate in the 10th Nelson Mandela World Human Rights Moot Court Competition, where she and her teammate placed second. 

 

Williams said she discovered her passion for Human Rights at STU.

 

“I did not come to STU expecting to major in Human Rights, but I am glad I did,” she said. “I really got exposed to it in my second year when I was accepted to the Moot Court program, but I didn’t take the intro class until my third year.”

 

Williams said that she couldn't have predicted all the experiences she’s had during her time at STU, and she credits the people she’s met along the way for helping her get to where she is today.

 

“Leaving high school and starting university, I did not think I would accomplish as much as I have. I credit most of my success to my former Moot Court partner and best friend Camille Xavier and my stellar professors Dr. DiPaolo, Dr. Szurlej, and Dr. Babineau.

 

Law school will be the next step for Williams, after which she hopes to pursue a career in constitutional law or international human rights law.